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What Is Cheilosis (Angular Stomatitis)?

Cheilosis, also known as Angular Stomatitis or perleche, is a common inflammatory skin condition that causes painful, red, swollen, and cracked lesions at one or both corners of the mouth. The condition occurs when saliva pools in the mouth corners, creating a warm, moist environment that encourages the growth of yeast (Candida) or bacteria. It can be irritating, making talking, eating, and smiling uncomfortable.

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What Is Cheilosis (Angular Stomatitis)?

Cheilosis, also known as Angular Stomatitis or perleche, is a common inflammatory skin condition that causes painful, red, swollen, and cracked lesions at one or both corners of the mouth. The condition occurs when saliva pools in the mouth corners, creating a warm, moist environment that encourages the growth of yeast (Candida) or bacteria. It can be irritating, making talking, eating, and smiling uncomfortable.

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Primary Causes Beyond Dry Lips

While many people think it's just dry or chapped lips, Cheilosis has specific underlying causes:

  • Yeast/Fungal Infection: Candida yeast is the most common cause, thriving in the moist environment created by saliva pooling.
  • Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of certain B vitamins (especially B2 or riboflavin) or iron can predispose you to Cheilosis.
  • Saliva Pooling: This can be caused by poorly fitting dentures, constant lip licking, or an overbite.

How Cheilosis Can Affect Contact Lens Wearers

Maintaining excellent hand hygiene is always critical for contact lens wearers. If you have active Cheilosis caused by a Candida infection, touching your face and then handling your lenses can increase the risk of transferring the infection to your eyes, leading to conditions like keratitis. It is essential to wash and dry your hands thoroughly before inserting or removing lenses, especially during a flare-up.

Diagnosis and Effective Treatment

Cheilosis is usually diagnosed by a doctor or dentist through a simple visual inspection. Since the cause is often a fungal infection, treatment usually involves applying a topical antifungal cream to the affected area. If the cause is nutritional, the doctor may recommend supplements. Addressing the moisture issue, like ensuring dentures fit correctly or avoiding excessive lip licking, is also necessary for a permanent fix.

Lens.com: Focusing on Face and Hand Hygiene

At Lens.com, we talk about overall facial hygiene because it directly impacts safe contact lens wear. Simple issues like Cheilosis remind us that clean hands are the first line of defense against eye infections. We support a holistic approach to health, emphasizing proper care for the areas surrounding your eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheilosis (Angular Stomatitis)

Is Cheilosis contagious?

No, the condition itself is not generally contagious. While the underlying yeast or bacteria are naturally present, the condition is caused by an overgrowth in your own body due to an environmental factor (moisture) or deficiency.

Can chapstick cure Cheilosis?

No. Chapstick or lip balm will not cure Cheilosis. It may provide temporary moisture relief, but it won't kill the underlying yeast or address the nutritional/saliva-pooling cause. You need an antifungal or antibiotic treatment from a doctor.

Who is most likely to get Cheilosis?

It is common in people who wear dentures, older adults with drooping mouth corners, children who suck their thumbs, and people with conditions that cause immune suppression or vitamin deficiencies.